Single Idea 14515

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / B. Nature of a State / 2. State Legitimacy / c. Social contract]

Full Idea

If someone passes a law and it does not turn out to be in accord with what is useful in mutual associations, this no longer possesses the nature of justice.

Gist of Idea

A law is not just if it is not useful in mutual associations

Source

Epicurus (Principle Doctrines ('Kuriai Doxai') (frags) [c.290 BCE], 37)

Book Reference

Epicurus: 'The Epicurus Reader', ed/tr. Inwood,B. /Gerson,L. [Hackett 1994], p.35